Today is Pearl Harbor Day.

“On Sunday morning, December 7, 1941 America’s naval base in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii was attacked by the forces of the Empire of Japan. The attack sank four U.S. Navy battleships and damaged four more. It also damaged or sank three cruisers, three destroyers, one minelayer and damaged 188 aircraft. More than 2,400 Americans were killed and more than 1,100 were wounded.” (From Wikipedia.org)

We live in such a self-absorbed culture, don’t we?  From advertising to education to just basic human nature, we as a people are consumed with ourselves.

That’s why days like today are so important.

To set aside a day of remembrance is to take a step back and acknowledge that our little lives are not the main point of the universe.  Our individual dreams and desires are important, but they are part of a much bigger dream that includes all of us, and has required a great price to purchase and secure.

Please join me today in three things.

First, let us remember the tragedy of war and the reality that save for the grace of God, we are not nearly as safe as we believe.

Second, let us honor the sacrifices of those who lost their lives on that tragic day, and show our gratitude by saying “thank you” to member of our Armed Forces today.  Thank them for their willingness to be put in harms way to preserve the freedom of our nation, even for those who would disrespect them for their service.

Third, let us take heart and have hope for the future, for not only did America recover and go on to victory in the war, but we were able to help rebuild Japan and see them grow into one of our allies today.

May our hearts not lose the strength and resolve to fight hard for freedom whenever necessary, and by God’s grace, may we also continue to work for peace as much as we can.